While athletes reap the most benefits from Special Olympics Pennsylvania, their participating families also gain from the experience, writes Gray Hall for 6abc.

So when Fairless Hills resident Billy Rigefsky was first diagnosed with autism, it was a struggle for his family.

“It felt like I was underwater all the time, like you’re just trying to survive the day,” said his mother, Lisa.

But after his teacher noticed how much he enjoyed gym class and suggested the Special Olympics, things changed significantly.

At first, Lisa partnered with him on long-distance runs for safety reasons, but soon it was no longer needed.

“He got so much faster than me,” she said. “I could no longer see him on the course.”

Billy soon started winning medals in local races and at a variety of Special Olympics events.

As his self-confidence grew, his parents started coaching several sports and found it to be an important outlet.

“Special Olympics provides year-round training, and we take full advantage,” said Lisa.

Additionally, networking with other parents has also proven to be invaluable.

“They can give you information about you know, therapists and doctors and things maybe you didn’t think to try,” said Lisa.

To see how Billy’s journey transformed not just his own life but reshaped his entire family’s outlook, read the full story and exclusive interviews at 6abc.